Injury
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Extensive soft-tissue defects around the ankle and foot pose a difficult challenge to surgeons. Considering that natural contour, the ideal solution should match a thin and pliable skin flap to allow shoe fitting and provide a functional move. As the conjoined flaps were increasingly utilized in covering various defects, we present our experience using the bipedicle conjoined flap on the lower abdomen and groin site. ⋯ Bipedicle conjoined flap harvested from the lower abdomen and groin is a great alternative, in selected patients seeking one-stage coverage for the exposed ankle and foot. Compared to single-pedicle flaps, the increased skin allows the wider coverage for the large defect with less morbidity and better outcomes.
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Intra-articular distal tibial fractures are most commonly caused by high-energy trauma. Additional difficulties are related to accompanying soft-tissue injuries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the consequences of different types of distal tibial fractures to the individual patient and to the public health care system. ⋯ Intra-articular distal tibial fractures cause a major burden to individual patients and stresses the public health care system due to a frequent need for several surgical procedures because of soft-tissue injuries and complications. AO/OTA type C3 fractures had the greatest burden, as patients required several consecutive operations and prolonged hospital stays.
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Cephalomedullary (CMN) implants are commonly used to address elderly intertrochanteric hip fractures. Multiple CMN implant systems exist with subtle variation between manufacturers. Multiple modes of CMN failure have been described in the literature. The present study assessed the local modes and rates of construct failure (nail fracture, cut-out and non-union) of two such implants, after a change in implant supply provided the opportunity for retrospective comparison. Additional investigation was undertaken to assess whether any predictors of failure could be identified based on common radiographic measurement parameters. ⋯ No difference in rates or modes of failure were identified between the TFN and ZNN constructs. Similar to previous reports we again identified the impact of tip to apex distance on construct failure and further identified Cleveland zone and sagittal malalignment as significant risks for failure.
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The acetabular morphology varies greatly among individuals, and hypoplasia is more common in Asia than in Europe. Dislocation after bipolar hip arthroplasty (BHA) for femoral neck fracture occurs at a constant rate, and is affected by the acetabular morphology. This study aimed to clarify individual differences in the acetabula of Asian patients with displaced femoral neck fractures. ⋯ Older adults with femoral neck fractures can have anterior wall and posterior wall defects, even if their SASA is normal. Hidden acetabular dysplasia may be related to post-BHA dislocation. So, our results suggest that is important to accurately evaluate the acetabulum of patients with femoral neck fracture before surgery.
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Non-unions and chronic instability of the pelvis remain rare complications after complex high velocity injuries with vertical and rotational instability of the pelvis. Treatment options are insufficiently supported by data evidence due to the rareness of this condition. ⋯ Non-union and remaining instability of the pelvic ring represent a rare complication after high grade pelvic trauma. There are only limited data regarding the incidence and the treatment regimen is based on small study populations only. Based on our findings we recommend to combine autologous bone grafts with rigid fixation systems especially for non-union of the pelvis to restore the posterior sacroiliac arch.